WRGB’s Jack Aernecke to retire in July

It’s official now: Veteran news anchor and business editor Jack Aernecke will retire at the end of July, WRGB, Ch. 6 said today.

For nearly 35 years, Aernecke has covered the business community through reports on trends, economic impact and technology.

“Jack’s knowledge of technology and business, particularly nanotechnology and chip-fab has distinguished him and provides valuable insight for viewers,” said the Robert Furlong, vice president and general manager of the CBS affiliate in Niskayuna.

Aernecke started at the station in 1972. He was in New York City to report on the 9/11 attacks, and he managed the WRGB effort to provide supplies to victims of Hurricane Andrew in Florida.

Aernecke also took viewers to Albany’s sister city, Tula, Russia, in 1992, shortly after the dissolution of the Soviet Union.

He has received numerous awards for his service, most recently the Envoy Salute, a high honor from the Albany-Colonie Regional Chamber of Commerce.

Aernecke currently serves as a member of the Notre Dame Bishop Gibbons School Board and the board of the Arthritis Foundation of Northeastern New York. He has worked to raise money and awareness in yearly telethons for the Muscular Dystrophy Association and the Arthritis Foundation, and also participates in the CBS 6 Melodies of Christmas, which benefits children at Albany Medical Center.